Orivieto

Sunday, May 7

Orivieto
Here we go!
Funicular
Our last full day in Beautiful Tuscany.  Time to pack and then off to the town of Orivieto for the afternoon. The city, in the Umbria region, is one of the most dramatic in Europe, rising above the almost vertical faces of tuff cliffs.  We parked below the old town and took the funicular
to the top and entrance to this amazing medieval town.  The streets were lined with cute little shops, cafes, bakeries, and cobblestones.  Hard to choose which way to turn your head, amazement in every direction.
After a quick stop at a small cafe we headed toward the remarkable Duomo, built in 1920.

The Duomo is one of the most ornate Italian cathedrals inside and out we have ever seen.  The outside face is striped in white travertine and greenish black basalt in narrow bands.  The front of the cathedral is striking and has some remarkable sculptures and ornate detail.  Inside the cathedral was just as amazing with frescoed walls and ceilings.  There are two chapels within the cathedral and a wonderful place to reflect on life's blessings and prayers.  It was calming and spiritual and well worth the visit.  We loved exploring this city and so glad it made the list.
Duomo



City walls
Steve checking out the views

The views
The courtyard of Walter Radaelli 
Our last evening as a group and our Tuscany adventure.  Rory had arranged for us to dine at a marvelous local restaurant, Ristorante Walter Radaelli located near the town of Bettolle.  The restaurant is actually part of the old stables, has large red brick cross vaults, fireplace, grapevine canopied courtyards and stunning views of the Tuscan countryside.
Beautiful views
Lots of History
There is also and Inn on the property which is a charming old farmhouse dating back to the end of the 18th century. We had such a friendly welcome by the Chef and his wife we knew we were in for a treat.

Courtyard
Beautiful arches
We had an amazing meal, from the antipasto to the dessert, to the serving and pairing of wines, everything was just fantastic and a wonderful display of culinary genius. It was definitely a "Please the Palate" kind of night!

Appetizers
Amazing Cheeses!
Wonderful Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar!

Prepping the Wine glasses for our special wine!


Risotto and Pici

Lamb... that was over the top!

White Fish with Pea Puree
A toast to the chef and staff!

Maybe this one!
Dessert Anyone!

Chocolate.... this one!
We can't thank Rory and George enough for this experience and the entire trip.  It was magical and something we won't forget.  We are excited for the new friends we have met (Rory, George, Norman, Kathleen, Michael, Stephanie, Colleen, Marcia, Shelley, Arlene), all the meals we have shared, the stories that were told, birthdays celebrated, and toasts that were made. Lastly, I want to thank my husband Steven for making this dream of mine come true and this wonderful trip possible.  I love you to the Tuscan Moon and Back!
Steven and Rene'

Another amazing adventure!

Ciao

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